The Sokoto State House of Assembly has called on the state government to expedite the reconstruction of shops destroyed by fire at the Shehu Shagari Central Market in Sokoto metropolis.
The call followed a motion moved by Alhaji Shamsu Aliyu (APC–Wurno) and seconded by Alhaji Abdullahi Zakari (APC–Rabah), during Wednesday’s plenary session.
Aliyu recalled that a fire incident occurred at the market some years ago, resulting in the destruction of numerous permanent shops.
“In the aftermath of the inferno, some traders resorted to erecting makeshift tents and kiosks along major roads surrounding the market.
“This practice has led to the obstruction of access routes within and around the market, which poses serious risks during emergencies and has contributed to further loss of goods and infrastructure,” he warned.
Aliyu appealed to his colleagues to urge the state government to fast-track the reconstruction process to restore a conducive business environment at the market.
In his contribution, the House Majority Leader, Alhaji Bello Idris (APC–Gwadabawa), described the motion as timely and appropriate.
He suggested that the assembly’s Joint Committees on Commerce and Industry, and Works, conduct an oversight visit to assess the situation at the market.
Following deliberations, the Speaker, Alhaji Tukur Bala, put the motion to a voice vote, and it was unanimously adopted by the lawmakers.
In a related development, the assembly also adopted a motion calling for the construction of a road in Wamakko Local Government Area.
The motion, proposed by Alhaji Abubakar Lamido (APC–Wamakko) and seconded by Alhaji Abubakar Shehu (APC–Yabo), highlighted the importance of the road project.
According to Lamido, the proposed road will link Marmaron Nufawa to several communities including Lugu, Mullaila, Gidan Dan-Baba, and Gidan Sanda, before terminating at Bakin Kusa in Wamakko LGA.
“This motion is in response to the request of the affected communities and considers the significant economic benefits it will bring to the state and its people,” Lamido added. (NAN)
